Holy men can make India modern: Modi

Gorakhpur, July 22: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said "sadhus and sants" (holy men) can play an important role in making India modern and prosperous.

Modi made the remark after unveiling a statue of Mahant Avaidyanath, who was with the Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur.

"It's my privilege that I had the opportunity to unveil the statue of Avaidyanathji who is inspiration to all. 'Sadhus and sants' can play an important role in making India prosperous and modern. Many are already doing it.

"I have also come to know about 'sants' who contributed to the campaign to build toilets and encouraged others to do that," he added.

"This land is very special. Be it Gautam Budhha, Mahavir or Kabir, they all had an unbreakable bond with this nation.

"Whoever had the opportunity to serve this nation gave their best. Mahant Avaidyanathji's contribution to this is immense," he added.